Whether large or small, contentious or quiet, Delaware taxpayers are on the hook for millions each time votes need to be cast across the state. Among other points on the balance sheet, election employees have to be paid, machines need to be shipped and polling stations booked, all at a cost that falls around the $3 million mark for statewide elections. Election officials say running the whole show from the state level helps streamline the process, but it’s never easy or cheap. This year had a presidential primary in April, a statewide primary on Sept. 13 and the general election in November, plus other local contests.
New Castle County is home to the state’s largest voter segment and the highest costs for statewide elections, representing about half the state’s total expenditures.
Election costs in 2014 surpassed $1.4 million, a trend that stretches back to 2002 when costs were just below $1.1 million. Running the 2008 elections in New Castle was the most expensive year since 1994, at $1.52 million.
This year, the state estimates the three county offices and the department of elections will spend a combined $3 million on elections. Kent is budgeted for a $666,000 total, Sussex for $537,500, New Castle for $1.6 million and the department of the Commissioner of Elections will spend an additional $152,400 to fill in the gaps and handle affairs that cross county lines.
Full Article: Delaware elections tab totals $3 million.